Waterfront Dining in the Georgia Mountains
While visiting the scenic Georgia mountains, visit the best restaurants in North Georgia with scenic water and mountain views. Whether you want a fine dining experience, a casual meal, or a place you can boat into, you can find exactly what you like at these North GA waterfront restaurants.
North Georgia Waterfront Dining at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant
The waterfront restaurants below are organized by the town that they are near. A few go through town, while others are in more remote locations.
Quick Article Navigation:
Map of North Georgia Waterfront Restaurants
Use the interactive map and the detailed restaurant guide to find the great restaurants in North Georgia where you can enjoy scenic views of the water with a great meal!
North Georgia Waterfront Dining
North GA Waterfront Dining at The Troll Tavern in Helen
Many of these restaurants are only open during the busier Summer months when lake or river traffic is at its peak. Phone numbers have been provided so you can call ahead to ensure the restaurant is open when you want to visit.
Blue Ridge Waterfront Restaurants
These waterfront restaurants near the mountain town of Blue Ridge offer a great way to enjoy the water while you dine. Choose a spot on the Toccoa River or a lively marina bar & grill on Lake Blue Ridge.
Toccoa Riverside Restaurant
Toccoa Riverside Restaurant in North GA
The Toccoa Riverside Restaurant is near Blue Ridge in the Aska Adventure Area. This restaurant on the Toccoa River is a great option whether driving in or paddling a canoe down the river. Enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, sandwiches, and salads at this tucked-away spot in the North Georgia mountains.
The outside deck and bar areas are dog-friendly—they even have a menu for “canine cuisine.”
Open Wednesday – Sunday for lunch and dinner.
- Phone: +1 (706) 632-7891
- Address: 8055 Aska Road, Blue Ridge, GA
- Website: toccoariversiderestaurant.com
- TripAdvisor: Toccoa Riverside Restaurant has 1,250+ reviews
Boat Dock Bar & Grill at Lake Blue Ridge Marina
Lake Blue Ridge Marina’s Boat Dock Bar & Grill Waterfront Dining in Ga Mountains
This casual spot on Lake Blue Ridge offers appetizers, salads, entrees, beer, wine, and cocktails. Open daily at 11 a.m. (closes 9 p.m. Sun – Thu & 10 p.m. Fri – Sat). Closed during off-season.
- Phone: +1 (706) 632-2618
- Address: 335 Marina Dr, Blue Ridge, GA
- Website: lakeblueridgemarina.com/boat-dock-bar-grill
- Facebook: Boat Dock Bar & Grill has 6,300+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Boat Dock Bar & Grill is rated 4.0 with 100+ reviews
Clayton Waterfront Restaurants
These waterfront restaurants on Lake Burton in Clarkesville serve great food and the option to drive in or boat to the restaurant!
Milton Park at Lake Burton
Milton Park at Lake Burton
Open Thursday through Monday, Milton Park features Neapolitan-inspired plus salads and appetizers. Enjoy craft beer, wine, and a cellar list with something for everyone. Located at Laprades Marina on Lake Burton.
- Phone: +1 (706) 947-0001
- Address: 25 Shoreline Trail, Clarkesville, GA
- Website: miltonparkrestaurant.com
- Facebook: Milton Park at Lake Burton is rated 4.7 with 50+ reviews and 900+ likes
Lake Burton Grill
Experience upscale casual dining at Lake Burton Grill, nestled in LaPrades Marina. Open seasonally, the restaurant offers a choice between a stylishly renovated indoor space and a scenic covered deck overlooking Lake Burton. Savor expertly crafted dishes and refreshing drinks while taking in panoramic waterfront views.
For even more options during the summer season, pick up food and drinks to-go from the sister restaurant, Bowline Takeaway and Bar. Find seating throughout the dog-friendly marina patio that overlooks Lake Burton. Indulge in a refreshing ice cream treat from Lakeside Scoops for a classic summer treat!
- Phone: +1 (706) 222-7060
- Address: 25 Shoreline Trail, Clarkesville, GA
- Email: lakeburtongrill@lvmgt.com
- Website: lakeburtongrill.com
- Facebook: Lake Burton Grill has 1,800+ followers
NOTE –> After 12 years on Lake Burton, The Chophouse at La Prade’s Marina moved to Franklin, NC, in April 2023 to a space with a year-round business model.
Cleveland Waterfront Restaurants
Creekside Deli
Creekside Deli Cleveland GA
The Creekside Deli has been serving the town of Cleveland for over 30 years. This quaint spot isn’t on a river or lake but does have an outdoor patio that overlooks the creek and is open 7 days a week (11:00 am – 8:00 pm).
- Phone: +1 (706) 865-3666
- Address: 16 Old Nacoochee Road, Cleveland, GA
- Website: creeksidedeli.com
- Facebook: Creekside Gourmet Deli has 3,300+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Creekside Deli is rated 4.5 with 200+ reviews
- Ranked #1 for Quick Bites in Cleveland
Riverside Tavern at Turner’s Corner
Riverside Tavern at Turner’s Corner Waterfront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains
This casual restaurant is located on a quiet stretch of the Chestatee River between Cleveland and Dahlonega. Enjoy indoor or outdoor dining. Outdoor decks on 2 levels allow you to spend time downstairs (closer to the water) with a drink, or dine upstairs in the dining room or on the screened-in deck.
- Phone: +1 (706) 865-0190
- Address: 10 Turners Corner Rd, Cleveland, GA
- Website: riversidetavernturnerscorner.com
- Facebook: Riverside Tavern Dahlonega has 4,000+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Riverside Tavern at Turner’s Corner is rated 4.5 with 25+ reviews
Dahlonega Waterfront Restaurants
In addition to these restaurants on the water, you may also enjoy a meal at Montaluce Winery and Estates or Frogtown Cellars. Both of these Dahlonega Plateau vineyards have seating with scenic views of the irrigation ponds that are next to their mountain vineyards.
Helen Waterfront Restaurants
You have your choice of a handful of waterfront restaurants on the Chattahoochee River in Helen. Choose your preferred style of dining and enjoy a nice meal along the river bank.
Alpine Brew Deck
Alpine Brew Deck in Helen GA on Chattahoochee River
This waterfront restaurant on the Chattahoochee River is great for casual dining and cold drinks at tables that are almost directly over the river. Enjoy live music and a lively bar scene. Outdoor dog-friendly seating is available on the covered deck by the water.
- Phone: +1 (706) 878-7293
- Address: 11 River Street, Helen, GA
- Website: alpinebrewdeck.com
- Facebook: Alpine Brew Deck has 3,300+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Alpine Brew Deck is rated 3.5 with 25+ reviews
Cafe International
Cafe International Helen on the Chattahoochee River
This restaurant is right in the middle of downtown Helen and is located directly on the Chattahoochee River! It features a covered deck to enjoy the nice weather on the riverfront with your drinks and American and German food. Open daily from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. (closes at 9:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday).
- Phone: +1 (706) 878-3102
- Address: 8546 South Main St, Helen, GA
- Website: cafeinternationalhelen.com
- Facebook: Cafe International has 3,400+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Cafe International is rated 4.0 with 700+ reviews
Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub
Chattahoochee River flows next to the patio at Hofbrauhaus Restaurant in Helen GA
Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub is located at the northwest end of the Helen main street on the Chattahoochee River and is open daily from 11 am – 9 pm. Enjoy this restaurant modeled after the famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich, Germany. The Hofbrauhaus menu boasts German favorites and American standards, so there is something for everyone. Dog-friendly outdoor patio and live music on the weekends.
- Phone: +1 (706) 878-2248
- Address: 9001 N Main Street, Helen, GA
- Website: hofbrauhaushelenga.net
- Facebook: Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub has 2,000+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub is rated 4.0 with 975+ reviews
The Troll Tavern
Helen Georgia The Troll Tavern
This location is named for its location “under the bridge” on the river right in the heart of downtown Helen. You’ll find a menu with German and American favorites, as well as a beverage menu with beer, wine, and cocktails. Souvenir mugs are also available.
- Phone: +1 (706) 878-3117
- Address: 8590 N Main Street, Helen, GA
- Website: trolltavern.com
- Facebook: The Troll Tavern has 11,000+ followers
- TripAdvisor: The Troll Tavern is rated 3.5 with 1,900+ reviews
Paul’s Steakhouse (and Paul’s Margarita Deck)
Paul Restaurant in Helen, Georgia
These restaurants include a Steakhouse located at the intersection of the Chattahoochee River and Main Street, with an adjacent lively margarita deck located just upstream (also on the river).
Paul’s Margarita Deck Helen GA
The steakhouse is indoor fine dining (with windows big enough to take in the water views) and primarily serves steaks and seafood. The margarita deck is open to enjoy the weather on a nice day and serves drinks with a food menu of mostly casual sandwich “baskets”. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Phone: +1 (706) 878-2468
- Address: 8537 S. Main Street, Helen, GA
- Website: paulssteakhouse.com
- Facebook: Paul’s Steakhouse has 11,000+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Paul’s is rated 3.5 with 1,100+ reviews
Hiawassee Waterfront Restaurants
The town of Hiawassee sits on Lake Chatuge and has many places along the lake (or just across a 2-lane road) that provide beautiful views of the lake and the mountains. For the finest dining experience, you must try The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen for a gourmet meal and an extensive wine menu. For something more casual, there are many other options all listed below. Please note that some of these are not waterfront, but they are across the street and provide water views.
The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen
The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen Young Harris
Located on the water at Lake Chatuge, this is where to go for a memorable fine dining experience for breakfast, dinner, or Sunday brunch (not open for lunch). Located within The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge, there are plenty of manicured pathways to stroll around to enjoy the scenery after your meal.
- Phone: +1 (706) 896-4141
- Address: 3499 US Highway 76, Hiawassee, GA
- Website: theoakslakesidekitchen.com
- Online Reservations: OpenTable
- Facebook: The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen has 3,200+ followers
- TripAdvisor: The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen is rated 4.0 with 350+ reviews
Marina Station Lake Chatuge
Marina Station Lake Chatuge Lakefront Dining in the Georgia Mountains
Marina Station is located on the water at Lake Chatuge and is a comfortable, relaxing, newly renovated space with over 40 feet of bar service and plenty of TVs to watch your favorite team. There are four garage doors that open onto the deck, to allow unimpeded views of the surrounding natural beauty of the lake and mountains. The downstairs patio offers a walk-up bar, yard games, and plenty of space to stretch your legs and enjoy the band. Arrive via bike, car, or by boat! Open Wed – Sun at 11:00 a.m.
- Phone: +1 (706) 896-2262
- Address: 3399 US Highway 76, Hiawassee, GA
- Website: theridgesresort.com/marina-station
- Facebook: Marina Station Lake Chatuge has 6,000+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Marina Station Lake Chatuge is rated 4.0 with 175+ reviews
Hawg Wild BBQ and Catfish House
Hawg Wild BBQ Lakefront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains
This barbecue joint is located directly on the lake, but it is surrounded by parking and landscaping which obstructs the lake views a bit. The best views of the lake and mountains are available on the patio when the weather is agreeable.
- Phone: +1 (706) 896-3200
- Address: 625 US-76, Hiawassee, GA
- Website: hawgwildbbqhiawassee.com
- Facebook: Hawg Wild BBQ and Catfish House has 2,700+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Hawg Wild BBQ and Catfish House is rated 4.0 with 300+ reviews
The Happy Hawg
The Happy Hawg Restaurant on Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains
This property has a narrow view of Lake Chatuge and the Blue Ridge Mountains from its patio. Multiple types of barbecue sauce on the table to please those who want spicy, vinegary (is that a word??), or sweet barbecue sauces. Enjoy the sandwiches and platters with generous portions of side items. Only open select days of the week. Call for hours.
- Phone: +1 (706) 896-0012
- Address: 1586 U.S. 76 W, Hiawassee, GA
- Website: thehappyhawg.shop
- Facebook: The Happy Hawg has 2,700+ followers
- TripAdvisor: The Happy Hawg is rated 4.5 with 425+ reviews
- Ranked #1 for Restaurants in Hiawassee
El Cancun
El Cancun Restaurant by Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains
This casual Mexican restaurant is across the street from Lake Chatuge, but close enough to enjoy the scenic lake views. Outdoor seating is available to take advantage of great weather and the beautiful views.
- Phone: +1 (706) 896-7677
- Address: 3360 Highway 76, Hiawassee, GA
- Facebook: El Cancun has 400+ followers
- TripAdvisor: El Cancun is rated 3.5 with 125+ reviews
Sand Bar & Grille
Sand Bar and Grille by Lake Chatuge in the Georgia Mountains
This spot is across the street from Lake Chatuge but still offers plenty of lake and mountain views. The menu is mainly typical bar food with wings, pizza, and sandwiches. The sand “beach” out front is a lively spot with live music every Friday and Saturday night.
- Phone: +1 (828) 371-4718
- Address: 3288 Dogwood Ln, Hiawassee, GA
- Website: sandbarandgrillenga.com
- Facebook: Sand Bar & Grille has 10,000+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Sand Bar & Grille is rated 4.0 with 50+ reviews
Lakeview Tavern
This restaurant is adjacent to the Sand Bar & Grill and offers “exceptional food and a welcoming social atmosphere.”
- Phone: +1 (706) 970-3613
- Address: 3295 Dogwood Lane, Hiawassee, GA
- Website: lvtavern.com
- Facebook: Lakeview Tavern has 2,600+ followers
- TripAdvisor: Lakeview Tavern
NOTE that the Moondance Grill and Eclipse Fine Dining in Hiawassee have closed.
McCaysville Waterfront Restaurants
Crossing bridge into McCaysville, GA, with a view of closed restaurants on the riverfront
Located on the state line of Georgia and Tennessee, these three restaurants share their entrances and provide a fantastic view of where the Toccoa River becomes the Ocoee River. Enjoy a meal on the outside riverside decks for the most scenic views at the historic @RiverwalkShops.
Burra Burra on the River
Burra Burra on the River Waterfront Restaurant in the Georgia Mountains
Located in McCaysville with a dog-friendly deck overlooking the Toccoa River, this casual spot is a great place to enjoy a meal. Burra Burra on the River celebrates the #CopperBasin with classic American food, beer, & wine.
- Phone: +1 (706) 400-6660
- Address: 100 Blue Ridge Dr, Suite 100, McCaysville, GA
- Website: burraburraontheriver.com
- Facebook: Burra Burra on the River is rated 4.2 with 1,000+ reviews and 4,400+ likes
- TripAdvisor: Burra Burra on the River is rated 3.5 with 250+ reviews
Happy Bear Cafe
Happy Bear Cafe on the Toccoa River in the Georgia Mountains
This riverfront cafe serves breakfast, bakery goods, and ice cream all day long! In addition to breakfast, after 11:00 am, they offer gourmet hot dogs, beer, and wine! Open 7:00 am – 7:00 pm (no alcohol sales on Sunday).
- Phone: +1 (706) 400-6677
- Address: 100 Blue Ridge Drive, Suite 102, McCaysville, GA
- Website: happybearcafe.com
- Facebook: Happy Bear Cafe is rated 4.4 with 25+ reviews and 875+ likes
- TripAdvisor: Happy Bear Cafe is rated 5.0
Twisted Tomato
Shared entrance by bridge for Burra Burra, Happy Bear, and Twisted Tomato in McCaysville GA
Stop by this waterfront North Georgia restaurant for wood-fired pizza, pasta, and freshly baked Italian sandwiches, and enjoy them on the outdoor riverfront deck.
- Phone: +1 (706) 400-6675
- Address: 100 Blue Ridge Drive, Suite 101, McCaysville, GA
- Website: twistedtomatoga.com
- Facebook: Twisted Tomato is rated 4.6 with 300+ ratings and 3,100+ likes
- TripAdvisor: Twisted Tomato is rated 4.0 with 25+ ratings
Other North GA Waterfront Restaurants
In addition, these lakefront restaurants are great options when in Chatsworth or Toccoa!
Carter’s Lake Marina and Resort Restaurant
Carter’s Lake Marina & Resort Waterfront Restaurant in the Ga Mountains
Enjoy a casual lakefront meal at this marina restaurant on Carter’s Lake, about 20 miles from both Ellijay and Chatsworth.
This casual lakefront restaurant is open daily during the peak Summer season, and on weekends only during other times of year (it’s unlikely to be open during the coldest months). Featuring a kid-friendly menu of pizza, sandwiches, hot dogs, and sides, this restaurant will prepare your food in advance for call-in orders. Beer and wine sales are available in the restaurant. If you’d like to sit in the restaurant, allow 15 minutes for food prep while you enjoy the scenery of Carter’s Lake.
- Phone: +1 (706) 276-4891
- Address: 575 Marina Road, Chatsworth, GA
- Website: carterslake.com/restaurant-menu
- Facebook: Carter’s Lake has 8,700+ likes
- TripAdvisor: Carter’s Lake is rated 4.5 with 25+ reviews
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Be sure to confirm open hours and availability before making a trip. Some waterfront restaurants operate seasonally and are not open daily or year-round.
Remember to take a selfie stick to capture the moment at these scenic restaurants in North Georgia and share it with your friends!
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North Georgia Waterfront Restaurants (Toccoa Riverside Restaurant)
Which of these waterfront North Georgia restaurants are you planning to try first? Do you prefer the soothing movement of the rivers or the peaceful tranquility of the lakes?
Thank you for recommending ” Boat Dock Bar & Grill restaurant” on your website. It’s a charming spot with a beautiful location. The view of Lake Blue Ridge was breathtaking, and the atmosphere was very inviting. The kitchen may be small, but the food hit the spot. The prices were reasonable, and the drinks were affordable. I particularly enjoyed the Hunch Punch; the weekly specials were a great addition to the menu.
I appreciated the dog-friendly policy and the option of takeout, and I was able to take my little Foufou with me; she’s my little child to me. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and I will definitely recommend this restaurant and your website to others. Thank you for sharing such a gem with your audience.
Hello, ziya rose! Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It’s extra special to enjoy a meal at a beautiful location and even more so when your dog is able to join the fun too!
I absolutely loved this blog post about waterfront dining in the Georgia Mountains! I’ve had the pleasure of visiting some of the restaurants mentioned in the article and can confirm that they offer a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience. There’s something special about enjoying a delicious meal while overlooking a beautiful lake or river, and the article captured that essence perfectly. From casual lakeside cafes to upscale fine dining establishments, there’s no shortage of waterfront dining options in the Georgia Mountains.
Hi, Dave! Thanks for sharing your experience. It’s nice that the warmer weather is allowing the seasonal places to start opening for the year! Bon Appétit!
Tybee Island would be my choice if you were to ask me which summer or beach destination has the best combination of hotels and restaurants by the beach or near the water. Thank you for the accurate recommendations!
Tybee Island is a nice destination, but as it is a coastal Georgia destination, it is not located near any of the scenic North Georgia mountains. Thanks for sharing!
Incredible list I like having meals at restaurants on the beach or close on the water. These establishments really did offer amazing meals and wonderful dining experiences! I hold them in high regard, just as https://visittybee.com/list/waterfront-restaurant, which is at the top of my culinary list.
Thanks so much for sharing Gabe! I will have to check out your Tybee recommendation when I’m in the area!
The scenery in the Georgia mountains is beautiful. And I have been planing a trip there for over two years. I believe this year we will finally be able to go. I am excited about this trip. I would like to stay near the canyon area. I can’t wait to dine over there with my family.
Hello! It’s been tougher than usual to travel for the past couple of years, but hopefully, 2022 will fare better!
Thanks for sharing this informative article that highlights waterfront dining in North Ga. This is a place that i have always wanted to visit, even though im on the other side of the pond in Scotland for this holiday. Its hard to beat a place with a great view, and these waterfront locations look like they offer the best of the area.
These waterfront restaurants definitely have some of the best locations in the Ga mountains. Keep them in mind for when you’re able to travel and enjoy the scenic views with your meal!